Daily Tribune
(File Photo) President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the 77th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force on 1 July 2024 at Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga. PBBM also witnessed the PAF capability demonstration, which included a simulation of air operations to retake territory by destroying enemy command and control. The demonstration featured high passes, a Figure 77 formation, a parade, and a final pass. PAF also honored its members with awards for outstanding performance. The president was joined by Philippine Air Force Commanding General Lt. Gen. Stephen P. Parreno, Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr., Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., among others.
Yummie Dingding
The Philippines and Canada have concluded negotiations for the proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA), the Department of National Defense (DND) announced on Friday.
In a statement, the DND said the agreement was developed through a series of virtual meetings and inter-agency consultations.
The conclusion of SOVFA negotiations follows the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations in 2024, during which both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through the agreement.
The Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) aims to establish a framework for increased cooperation, fostering closer collaboration between defense and military establishments, improving interoperability between forces, and facilitating more effective joint exercises and capacity-building activities.
“This development underscored the Philippines' commitment to bolstering international partnerships and promoting regional security, thereby ensuring security and economic prosperity of both countries,” the DND said.
The Philippines anticipates that the SOVFA will contribute to peace, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The DND reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with international partners to safeguard national interests and strengthen security efforts in the region.
During previous discussions, DND Undersecretary Angelito De Leon and Canada’s Department of National Defence Assistant Deputy Minister Scott Millar led their respective delegations.
